Director of Childcare (South School) at Penobscot Bay YMCA

Rockland, Maine, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

25 Jun, 26

Salary

62000.0

Posted On

27 Mar, 26

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Leadership, Program Growth, Supervision, Coaching, Curriculum Implementation, Family Engagement, Scheduling, Enrollment Management, Compliance, Problem-Solving, Communication, Organization, Team Development, Child Development Knowledge, Record Keeping, Safety Management

Industry

Community Services

Description

Description Are you a child care professional ready to lead and grow a program that makes a real impact? The Penobscot Bay YMCA is seeking a Child Care Director to lead our program at South School in Rockland. This role oversees multiple classrooms, including our public Pre-K partnership with RSU 13, and plays a key part in shaping a growing early learning program. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys both leadership and hands-on involvement—supporting teachers, engaging with children and families, and helping build a strong, high-quality program from the ground up. Our child care program serves toddlers through Pre-K and is rooted in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for every child. As part of the YMCA, you’ll be joining a mission-driven organization that is deeply connected to the Midcoast community. What You’ll Do • Lead daily operations of the child care program, supporting both staff and classrooms • Supervise, coach, and develop a team of child care professionals • Provide classroom support and coverage as needed • Ensure a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children • Support implementation of age-appropriate curriculum and activities • Build strong relationships with families through clear and responsive communication • Oversee program operations including scheduling, enrollment, and compliance What We’re Looking For • Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field (or working toward) • Experience in child care or education, with leadership experience preferred • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills • Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and teammates • Comfort with basic computer systems and required trainings Schedule & Additional Benefits • Monday – Friday daytime schedule (between 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM) — no nights or weekends • Monthly State of Maine stipend (currently $240+) in addition to base pay • Opportunity to work across classrooms serving toddlers through Pre-K Why Join the Y? • Consistent Schedule – Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM • Retirement Benefits – Access beginning Day 1, with potential eligibility for up to a 10% employer match after two years • YMCA Membership – Complimentary family membership • Additional Compensation – Eligible for monthly State of Maine stipend (currently $240+) • Meaningful Work – Be part of a team that supports children, families, and the broader community every day Requirements Essential Functions • Lead the daily operations of the child care program, ensuring a high-quality experience for children and families • Supervise, support, and mentor child care staff through coaching, communication, and professional development • Provide classroom coverage and support lesson planning and activities as needed • Implement age-appropriate curriculum that supports children’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development • Ensure the safety and well-being of children in a clean, secure, and nurturing environment • Manage program operations including staff scheduling, enrollment, and day-to-day oversight • Maintain compliance with state licensing regulations, NAEYC standards, and YMCA policies • Lead staff meetings, training sessions, and ongoing professional development opportunities • Communicate effectively with families, providing updates and addressing questions or concerns • Maintain accurate records including attendance, incidents, and licensing documentation • Build strong relationships with families and connect them to additional YMCA programs and community resources • Foster an inclusive, welcoming environment for children, families, and staff • Support community engagement and outreach efforts • Perform all other duties necessary for the success of the program and organization Qualifications • Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field (or working toward or equivalent experience) • 1–2+ years of experience in child care, education, or a related setting • Interest or experience in leadership, team development, and program operations • Strong understanding of early childhood development and classroom practices • Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills • Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a dynamic environment • Commitment to creating an inclusive environment and working with diverse populations • Comfortable using basic computer systems or willingness to learn • Required certifications include Mandated Reporter and YMCA Child Abuse Prevention training (completed during onboarding), with CPR/First Aid/AED certification required within 30 days Work Environment & Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made. • Ability to lift up to 40 pounds multiple times per day • Frequent bending, kneeling, twisting, and movement throughout the day • Ability to see, hear, and respond to the needs of children in a classroom environment • Ability to safely supervise and respond to active indoor and outdoor environments • Ability to manage and de-escalate unsafe behavior when necessary • Regular exposure to outdoor conditions in all seasons • Moderate noise levels, with occasional higher levels typical in child care settings (85-110 dBA)

Responsibilities

The Director will lead the daily operations of the childcare program, which includes supervising, coaching, and developing staff while ensuring a safe and engaging environment for children from toddlers through Pre-K. This role also involves supporting classroom activities, managing enrollment and scheduling, and maintaining compliance with regulations.